We’re still in Phase 1 of voting for the 2026 Emmys — but it’s never too early to start thinking ahead to the 2027 ceremony. The summer TV season officially commences next week and you can bet that several shows debuting between the start of June and the end of August will be in contention when September 2027 rolls around.
Gold Derby editors poured over the release calendar for the next three months and singled out a few sure things for Emmy recognition, starting with Apple TV’s latest star-powered prestige limited series, Cape Fear. Javier Bardem, Amy Adams, and Patrick Wilson headline this new version of the twice-made movie, which seems poised to deliver the same kind of ratings — and awards attention — that Jake Gyllenhaal’s Presumed Innocent reaped two summers ago. There’s also the return of Emmy stalwart Larry David in the HBO sketch-comedy series Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness and the return of House Targaryen with Season 3 of House of the Dragon.
The trio also selected a couple wild cards that could hit the Emmy jackpot if they play their hands right. Provided it reaches beyond the comic book faithful, Lanterns could be HBO’s next Penguin-like superhero on the awards circuit. And there’s also the final season of The Bear, the much-lauded FX series that perhaps should be considered more of a sure thing as it prepares to say farewell. And speaking of farewells, the editors also touch on some of the recent May finales, including Hacks, The Boys, and Half Man.
Watch the latest episode of Awards Magnet above or listen along on your podcast platform of choice. And be sure to send your questions, voicemails, and favorite dragon to awardsmagnet@goldderby.com.
